It is only my opinion but l feel if the qualifications and tests were more difficult that the industry would be represented better. We would gain back the respect that we rightfully deserve. Instead of being made to look bad by poor craftsman, licensed contractors that don’t know what they are doing and unlicensed contractors. We as contractors need to stand up to these people that give our industry a bad name! It will better our industry and better the economy in a whole. Any thoughts?
I agree
I would add that a real apprentice program for all trades be in place. It does not have to be union run
but verified by employer that this person has in deed worked, trained and performed the trade they are seeking a license for. At least 2-3 year experience before applying.
Also I believe there should be tougher penalties for working without a license.
In some cases yes! But in most no, being that most people that decide to become licensed in their trade of choice have many years of experience. And the people who do decide to take the step to get licensed have proven themselves to be experienced enough to start contracting on their own.
I know electrical and plumbing licenses take a long time to get, due to the classroom and field study. But should be due to the importance of these two trades.
As for me I have tested in California, Arizona now I’m contracting in Washington. I would have not taken this step if I didn’t think I was qualified
No, I do not believe the qualifications to become a general contractor are too easy because we need general contractors in the marketplace. GC’s, most times, do not ‘swing hammers’; therefore, the need for a GC to meet further qualifications beyond what is currently required is not necessary.
You have to remember that a GC is not an electrician or a roofer or a plumber. A GC is hired to manage the project. However, it is understood that a GC does possess a certain and breadth and depth of knowledge across all aspects of residential construction, so to intelligently understand projects as well as possess the ability to properly troubleshoot any occurrence of any hiccup or issue during the course of the project. But, does this justify an apprentice program, I do not believe that is necessary, but a good hypothesis to present to the ICC for review, testing and analysis of such programs that may or may not exist.
The other side of this question pertains to market acceptance. If you are not a good GC, then the market will not continue to hire you. So, even if an unqualified individual somehow has the ability to pass the test and obtain a license, then the market will eventually respond once services are rendered and the market will cease to provide the GC with contracts or work (assuming the work is poorly completed). But, you don’t want to hold back individuals that have the proper knowledge and ability to be a great GC by making that person complete a training program that would only prolong the process. But, for plumbers and electricians, I absolutely agree.
Great question Standardized Improvement Inc.!
We also agree with you on this! We, along with many others actually do work hard for our customers and we want to provide them with the best customer service and the highest quality work but when there is many of these lousy, cheap contractors out there with no training or experience whatsoever out there, than we lose many valuable customers and our work goes to waste.
Maybe in some states they are but in the state of West Virginia from which I am from one of the hardest things are become a general contractor the exam you must take is extremely thorough and not only must you take the contractors exam but you must also take a business and law exam in the state of West Virginia I believe only one out of every five pass the exam on the first try that’s why West Virginia contractors a recognized in almost every state
Short answer, yes.
Although I’m not sure that having several test can make everything better. For every state that requires a test there are several classes to help you study just for the test. Ultimately, the industry is hurt by peoples poor quality which can not be weeded out through a written test.